Over the last week or so we’ve investigated claims that Everton are keen on Atlético Madrid full-back Santiago Arias.
The rumour began in the Liverpool Echo, who stated the right back was a target for Marcel Brands, the Dutchman having previously signed him at PSV Eindhoven.
That was followed by AS backing up the claim, who explained Atlético were lining up replacements.
El Gol then added further details yesterday, saying that Everton were willing to drop €40m for the Colombian. We found those claims a little sensationalist, but there is undoubtedly interest there.
Indeed, Arias added fuel to the fire by suggesting that he would be talking about his future in Madrid once he was done with the Copa America.
“I’m focused on the national team, on having a good Copa America and then looking at what’s happening with Atlético de Madrid. I have a contract with Atlético, and I have to wait for the club to say, to see what happens,” he told Mundo Deportivo.
While talks are planned with Atlético at some point, Arias has insisted there has been no contact with Everton and specifically Marcel Brands.
“I did not talk to Brands. I’m focused on the Copa America with my country. We will see what the future holds for us. I still have a contract with Atlético, so my future is there now,” he told Algemeen Dagblad.
This is a move that is yet to get going, but there is plenty of smoke. Arias’ future at the Wanda Metropolitano is clearly far from certain.
In fact, it seems that if a bid from Everton were to come in, Atlético would pack his bags for him. An offer has yet to arrive from Goodison Park, though.
